Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) has said that any sale of shares in Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited (AVPPL) will occur only after all necessary approvals, including from the state government, are obtained. The statement followed reports that the government had expressed displeasure at not being informed earlier about the proposed divestment in favour of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC). APSEZ emphasised that the port will remain open access and that MSC would not receive exclusive rights. Aswani Gupta, chief executive officer of APSEZ, clarified that there is no immediate change in AVPPL shareholding and that the transaction currently pertains to the company as a wholly owned subsidiary of APSEZ. He said that the matter was disclosed in accordance with Securities and Exchange Board of India regulations governing listed entities after the initial stock exchange filing. The company added that it had informed the Government of Kerala following the filing and would continue to engage with relevant stakeholders. The group addressed concerns about a single shipping line gaining a monopoly by underlining that proposed arrangements with MSC do not grant exclusive berthing rights or restrict access for other shipping lines. It stated that Vizhinjam will continue to operate as an open access port serving all shipping lines and that standard concession terms will continue to apply. The clarification aimed to reassure opposition parties and coastal stakeholders about continuity of access. APSEZ reiterated that, even after completion of any approved transaction, it will control, consolidate and operate the port in line with the concession agreement. The company said it will pursue all requisite approvals and processes and maintain dialogue with the Government of Kerala and other authorities. The group affirmed its commitment to contractual, regulatory and governance requirements throughout the course of the proposed transaction.